TMJ Treatment

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Temporomandibular Joint Disorders – (TMD, TMJ)

Millions of Americans suffer from TMJ and craniofacial disorders. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. It is the joint that connects the lower jawbone to the skull. The human TMJ and jaw is essentially a lever system, complex in structure. Unfortunately this system is not ideal in design, often inefficient and subject to problems. Symptoms associated with this disorder include one or more of the following: chronic headaches and migraines, pain and ringing in the ears, vertigo (dizziness), sore/painful facial muscles, pain and/or stiffness in the neck, shoulder, and back. These symptoms are often so severe thus disabling one from normal daily activities and altering one’s quality of life.

Many of these symptoms are a result of poorly aligned teeth and an unbalanced “bad” bite. A bad bite can be caused by one or more of the following:

Clenching/grinding teeth

Orthodontic misalignment

High dental restorations (ie. crowns and filling)

In these circumstances, the TMJ and muscles have to work harder to bring teeth together in order to function properly. There is also a tendency for excessive subconscious clenching and/or grinding during the day and night while trying to find balance in the bite. As a result, teeth wear down and can fracture, and the TMJ and surrounding muscles become strained and fatigued.

Dr. Halbleib works with board certified craniopathic specialists utilizing cranial-dental procedures in treating these TMJ disorders. Working together, a balanced bite is achieved. Treatment might include bite adjustments (removing and re-contouring high spots and premature contacts on teeth and restorations), and/or fabrication of an occlusal (bite) splint orthotic to protect the jaw and muscles from clenching/grinding.

Other times more involved procedures are necessary including one or more of the following:

Orthodontics (braces) to move teeth into a more balanced and physiologic position

Prosthetic solutions where restorations are placed on badly worn, broken-down, missing restorations and teeth in order to restore and stabilize function and balance in the bite.

If you have any of these symptoms or have questions please call our office to schedule a TMJ consultation appointment for a complete exam and a review of your options.

To learn more about the TMJ treatments we provide or to schedule an appointment, please contact your Capitola Dentist Dr. Halbleib Today (831) 462-1612!

This place is the best. They listen to your health needs and are so gentle. I actually look forward to going here.

Dawn G.

Very experienced dentist, with the latest tools and techniques. One of few dentists in the area offering Perioprotect, which arrests periodontal disease, which is very very common.

Rick M.

Dr. Halbleib saved me from dentures!. My mouth was a mess, he came up with a plan and it worked. My teeth feel and look GREAT!. Thank you Dr. H.

Jack L.

I needed two new crowns. Dr. Halbleib created two beautiful crowns in one day. They are perfect. He was precise and has an artistic eye. I am extremely pleased with the outcome.

Meaghan B.

I have had many dentists in my life, some good and some terrible. I am so glad to have found Dr Halbleib’s practice. He is extremely knowledgeable, has all the latest technological tools, and the capability to use them. This is dentistry for the 21st century. The staff are also great; gentle, very pleasant and informative. On their recommendation, I have started perio-protect and I know it has changed my dental health.

Bill F.

Dr. Halbleib’s office and staff is fantastic. Let’s face it going to the dentist isn’t the first thing I want to do. But, Dr. Halbleib and his staff make it to where I really don’t mind. The offices ambiance is always clean and inviting. His staff is always friendly and professional. I have had a lot of dental work in the last 2 years and highly recommend Dr. Halbleib and his staff.

Nancy W.

Dr. Jesse Halbleib

A Bay Area native, Dr. Halbleib grew up in Santa Clara. He has lived in Santa Cruz since 1986 and has practiced general dentistry at his Capitola office since 1994. He and his wife, Shannon (BSN, RN), have been married for over 20 years. They have three children, Johnathan, Braidan, and Shane, as well as two horses, two dogs, three cats, and two guinea pigs